Oeno Files

5 Washington Red Wines to Drink This Fall

The state makes plenty of whites and rosés, but at heart, this is red wine country.

By Sean P. Sullivan October 30, 2020

If summer is for white wines and rosés, fall is the season for hearty reds. Luckily, Washington produces a diversity. Here we have a fruit-forward sangiovese, two irresistible merlot-heavy red blends, a sumptuous syrah, and the state’s rising star, cabernet sauvignon—all at superb values. 


Eight Bells 2017 Sangiovese Red Willow Vineyard Yakima Valley $25

On the Nose: sour cherry, thyme, dried orange peel.
On the Palate: laser-focused red fruit flavors.
Why It's Special: An achingly pure offering of a lesser seen variety from Washington. 

Sightglass Cellars 2018 Red Wine Columbia Valley $25

On the Nose: coffee, dark chocolate, and cherry.
On the Palate: dense, rich flavors.
Why It's Special: This luxurious blend drinks like a much more expensive bottle.

Gorman 2018 The Devil You Know Columbia Valley $30

On the Nose: cherry, coffee, baking spice.
On the Palate: a bold, palate-coating wine.
Why It's Special: Big reds like this help fend off winter’s chill.

Structure Cellars 2018 Bauhaus Syrah Columbia Valley $30

On the Nose: dark raspberry, dried herb.
On the Palate: intensity, depth, and balance.
Why It's Special: Syrah is a gem in Washington, and this wine glitters.

Airfield Estates 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Yakima Valley $18

On the Nose: black currant, plum, dried herb.
On the Palate: cherry flavors brightened by tart acids.
Why It's Special: High quality cabernet at $18? Yes, please. 

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